Welcome to Cape Fear Valley Health’s guide to cardiac arrest, a sudden and serious heart condition that requires immediate medical attention. Here, you'll learn about its causes and symptoms and the life-saving treatments we offer.
What is a Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest, also known as sudden cardiac arrest, is a critical emergency where the heart unexpectedly stops beating. This abrupt halt in heart function leads to the cessation of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. This can quickly result in loss of consciousness and, if untreated, death.
Cardiac arrest is primarily a result of electrical problems in the heart. The most common cause of cardiac arrest is an arrhythmia known as ventricular fibrillation. In this condition, rapid electrical impulses cause the lower chambers of the heart to quiver instead of pumping blood.
Other causes include coronary artery disease, where arteries become clogged, and cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart muscle becomes enlarged.
Several factors can increase the risk of cardiac arrest, including:
- A history of heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
Even people without known heart disease can experience cardiac arrest. In some cases, sudden cardiac arrest may be the first indication of a heart problem.
It's important to recognize the warning signs, such as chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath and heart palpitations. Immediate treatment is crucial, as the condition can be fatal within minutes without intervention.
Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attack
Many people use the terms “cardiac arrest” and “heart attack” interchangeably. However, they are actually separate conditions that require different treatments.
Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, leading to a loss of blood flow to the brain and organs. It's often caused by electrical disturbances in the heart, disrupting its pumping action and stopping blood circulation.
In contrast, a heart attack happens when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a clot. This blockage damages the heart muscle.
While a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, they are distinct events. A heart attack is a circulation problem, whereas cardiac arrest is an electrical problem.
Recognizing the difference is crucial for an appropriate emergency response.
Jeanne Lythgoe, DNP
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
Robert E Maughan, MD
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
Cardiac Arrest Treatment at Cape Fear Valley Health
A cardiac arrest is a medical emergency. Treating a cardiac arrest requires immediate action. Here's what typically happens:
Outside the hospital:
Emergency response: If someone shows signs of cardiac arrest, such as sudden collapse or unresponsiveness, call 911 immediately.
CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation): Bystanders should start CPR right away. This involves chest compressions to keep blood flowing.
AED (automated external defibrillator): If available, use an AED as instructed by the device. It can provide a needed shock to help the heart restart.
In the Emergency Department:
Immediate assessment: Upon arrival, medical staff quickly assess your condition and continue life-saving measures.
Advanced care: Doctors use defibrillators for electrical shocks, administer medications and provide advanced respiratory support if needed.
Diagnosis: Medical staff work to determine the cause of the cardiac arrest, which may involve blood tests, imaging or other diagnostics.
After admission to the hospital:
Ongoing treatment: Treatment may include medications, procedures or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the cardiac arrest.
Monitoring: Patients are closely monitored in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to track heart function and overall health.
Recovery and rehabilitation: Following stabilization, the focus shifts to recovery and rehabilitation, which may include physical therapy and lifestyle counseling.
Preventative measures: The medical team will discuss strategies to prevent future cardiac events, possibly including medications, lifestyle changes or implantable devices such as pacemakers.
This comprehensive approach ensures that each phase of treatment is tailored to the patient's immediate and long-term needs.